This book is a handy compilation of Jim’s fortnightly articles covering matters theological, scriptural, pastoral and playful. Having read and kept the columns, I have learned that when a particular type of reflection is desired, it will be there – it’s just a matter of looking.
Each short chapter addresses a topic from the mundane to the magnificent, followed by a related piece of scripture or other wisdom (often from Pope Francis), some questions to spark thought or conversation, and finally, a prayer.
On FoMO ‒ Fear of Missing Out ‒ Jim has this to say:
“Anxiety can be a terrible thing; people worry about just about everything. Some are more prone to that than others. The idea that someone, somewhere, is having a better time, making more money, or leading a more exciting life can cause great anxiety in some. For those who are more prone towards such feelings, smartphones and social media have made it easier than ever to track what others are doing. According to a survey in 2014, social media users were motivated by their need to socialise and connect with others, to escape boredom, but also to monitor their friends’ activities – what is called by some, ‘surveillance gratification’.
“…Comparing our life to another’s is not helpful. That may make you miss out on what’s in front of you for fear of missing out on what other people are raving about. Relax, enjoy and appreciate what you have instead of always looking at what others appear to have. The reality is, we can’t have it all. We have to say no to some things in order to say a meaningful yes to others.”
Jim Quillinan of the Diocese of Sale is the author of the fortnightly newsletter Along the Track and has published two previous books: Along the Track and Further Along the Track. Be Still Awhile Along the Track was published by Morning Star Publishing 2017.